The deadline to submit applications for the Environmental Quality Incentives Program in Ohio is Oct. 19, according to the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service.

EQIP is a voluntary conservation program that helps producers make conservation work for them. NRCS works with producers to invest in solutions that conserve natural resources for the future while also improving agricultural operations. 

Through EQIP, NRCS provides agricultural producers with financial resources and one-on-one help to plan and implement improvements, or what NRCS calls “conservation practices.” Using these practices can lead to cleaner water and air, healthier soil and better wildlife habitat — all while improving agricultural operations. Through EQIP, producers can voluntarily implement conservation practices, while NRCS co-invests in these practices.

Financial assistance is now available in a variety of agricultural categories such as cropland, forestry, pasture operations, and organic crops. Several special projects are also available that address water quality, forestry management, improving pollinator populations, applying best management practices and many more. All available agricultural categories are listed on the Ohio NRCS website under EQIP application deadlines.

To participate in USDA conservation programs, applicants must be farmers or owners of farm- and forestland, and they must meet eligibility criteria. Applications signed and submitted to NRCS by the Oct. 19 deadline will be evaluated for fiscal year 2019 funding.

To learn more about EQIP or other technical and financial assistance available through NRCS conservation programs, visit Get Started With NRCS or visit your local USDA Service Center.

Source: USDA NRCS